Warren Weir after Jamaicans won the men's 4x200m at the IAAF/BTC World Relays, Bahamas 2015 (© Getty Images)
This event provided one of the highlights of the 2014 IAAF World Relays but this year it turned into a comedy of errors for both Jamaica and the USA.
Despite a sloppy second exchange, Jamaica managed to retain their title in 1:20.97, but their win was a far cry from their triumph 12 months ago when they won in a world record of 1:18.63. It was even significantly slower than their heat win in 1:20.19.
Nickel Ashmeade and Rasheed Dwyer set up Jamaica for a fast time and maybe a tilt at the world record with two good opening legs and they built up a slight lead over their US rivals.
All chances of a world record as good as disappeared though when Dwyer’s handover to third-leg runner Jason Livermore was far from slick.
Livermore though couldn’t have known what was going on behind him as the baton hit the floor when Isiah Young and Curtis Mitchell – who was also involved in the USA’s disqualification in the 2014 4x200m final – fluffed the handover.
Michell retrieved the baton from another lane before carrying on running but, having stepped out of the exchange zone, the red flag was raised and disqualification certain.
Livermore was now clear in the lead and ensured was no more drama when he provided a solid but safe exchange to Warren Weir who comfortably finished ahead of surprise silver medallists France, who were second in 1:21.49.
The USA initially crossed the line third but Germany were soon promoted to that slot, having crossed the line in 1:22.65.
Usain Bolt had warmed up for the heats but withdrew from the team when he felt some tightness in his hamstring. "It was just a precaution, he ran hard yesterday," said Bolt's manager Ricky Simms.
Phil Minshull for the IAAF
